D.C. United were back out on the training field this week, ready to build off a key 2-1 win over New York City FC in which they claimed back-to-back wins for the first time this season. It was an upbeat, cheerful atmosphere as players took the field together before practice, but the intensity ramped up right away as the team began preparation for the upcoming clash against the New York Red Bulls on Saturday, April 15.
In last weekend’s win over NYCFC, the Black-and-Red remained hungry in the attacking third and jumped out to a 2-0 lead after halftime thanks to goals from Lloyd Sam and Luciano Acosta. Desperate for an equalizer, New York's attack tested United with heavy pressure late in the match, but the Black-and-Red remained composed, conceding the flanks and allowing City to cross from the wings, which proved to be unsuccessful for Patrick Vieira's side. United's resiliency helped them secure their second win in a row and build momentum as they prepare for their three-match road trip.
“They [New York City FC] caused us a lot of trouble with the numbers centrally,” said Olsen after last Saturday’s game. “So we made some adjustments at half time to at least curb the central penetration. Then they shifted it out wide, which is when they got a bunch of crosses in. But we defended the box well and came out with the three points.”
Perhaps looking to gain more of an advantage in possession in the coming weeks, this week's practice focused heavily on players making quick decisions and keeping possession while under pressure. Against a New York Red Bulls team that likes to press high on opposing defenses, especially at home, keeping possession while under duress could be especially useful in the next game for United.
With lots of crosses in the box and shots on goal, goalkeepers and defenders were kept busy in what can certainly be considered an “offensive” practice. Against NYCFC, United’s defense performed admirably while under intense pressure, staving off 23 crosses from open play and 15 total shots. United will be encouraged that very few of those crosses or shots resulted in much of anything for New York, as Bill Hamid (five saves) and company remained stout in defending their box.
United’s attack will look to fire on all cylinders against the Red Bulls after scoring six times in three games against them last season, going 1-0-2 in the process and securing the Atlantic Cup. Historically, United hold a significant advantage of 34-25-12 in the all-time series between the two sides, but will not take the Red Bulls lightly, as the Black-and-Red look to go for three straight wins and continue their climb in the Eastern Conference standings.
“Historically, it’s taken us a while to put back-to-back wins together,” said Olsen. “We play another New York team next week that we’re looking forward to. We don't need motivation to go play the Red Bulls. We want to keep improving."
